The Fabulous Forties

I'm having a 1940s moment! There's something about this decade that I've always loved. I'm fascinated by the Home Front and fashion on the ration in particular, as well as being rather partial to listening to Glenn Miller and watching films like 'Brief Encounter' and 'Mrs Miniver'. 

It's come to the time in my City and Guilds Embroidery course when we all have to start thinking about our textiles projects (we've been working on design modules since last September and I've been rediscovering my love of 'cutting and sticking'!) "We're going to start with a panel", my tutor announced last week, "start thinking about ideas and what your inspirations and themes could be". Well, I had no difficulty at all! 'Make Do and Mend' jumped into my head immediately and ever since then I've been collecting all sorts of bits and bobs for inspiration. Here are just some of the things I've gathered so far...

This was my Grandma's brooch. I love the colours. There's a safety pin on the back that's been attached with wonderfully wobbly hand sewn stitches. I often think I'd like to have a go at making a brooch of my own with felt flowers. I'll have to dig out my 1930's sewing book that has instructions on how to make different sorts of flowers and give it a go!

This is an original WWII Vogue pattern. Making clothes was a way of life then...no popping on to the high street every time a new outfit was needed! It was all coupons, restrictions and austerity...but recycling, re-using and eco-ness at its best.

There's something wonderful about 1940's fabric. The colours and designs really appeal to me. These glorious examples are from Donna Flower. 

I can't help but let out a whoop of delight when I find something with the Utility mark on it...there's just something about that little symbol! This label is inside a pair of rayon cami-knickers.

I think my next step in the name of research will be to re-watch 'Foyle's War'...with a nice cup of tea and some chocolate. Very tickety-boo!